Pupil or learner, used specifically to describe an original follower of Jesus Christ. In the Jewish society of Jesus’ time many religious teachers attracted disciples who came to be taught their master’s interpretation of scriptures. Jesus’ followers differed from such groups in several respects. For example, he actively sought out disciples and found many of them among people judged socially or morally as outcasts. The Apostles were the twelve chief disciples: Peter (the leader), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James (the Less), Thaddeus, Simon, and Judas Iscariot. After the suicide of Judas, who betrayed Jesus, his place was taken by Matthias. Paul and his original companion Barnabas are also considered as Apostles.